Serious off-roaders know how important skid plates are. These essential underbody protectors safeguard key components like the transfer case, oil pan, and fuel tank from damage caused by rough terrain, rocks, and other trail hazards.
Why are Skid Plates So Essential?
Skid plates are a popular custom 4×4 modification among off-roaders. They are heavy-duty shields that mount to the underside of your vehicle, defending vulnerable parts from damage on rocky or uneven trails. Made from tough materials like steel or aluminum, they’re essential for anyone who likes to push their truck to the limits.
Steel is the go-to for durability and strength, while aluminum is lightweight, making it a good option if you want to keep your vehicle’s weight down. Either way, a good skid plate will make sure your rig stays safe and ready to go.
Dixie 4 Wheel Drive offers a range of skid plates and other modifications to help off-roaders keep their off-roaders in peak condition. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of installation.
Step-By-Step Guide to Installing Skid Plates
Ready to get your hands dirty? Let’s jump into this easy, step-by-step guide on how to install skid plates on your custom 4×4.
Gather your tools and equipment
Before starting, gather everything you’ll need including:
- Skid plate kit
- Socket wrench set
- Jack and jack stands
- Drill (in case of pre-drilled hole issues)
- Safety gear, like gloves and goggles
Safely lift your vehicle
For easy access to the underside, lift your truck using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Ensure your truck is stable before you start working under it.
Remove existing underbody guards (if any)
Depending on your truck model, you might have factory-installed underbody guards. Use a socket wrench to remove these if needed, setting aside any hardware in case it’s useful later.
Position the skid plate
Line up the skid plate with the mounting points on your vehicle’s undercarriage. Many skid plates come with pre-drilled holes designed to match factory mounting points. If yours doesn’t quite line up, mark where you need to drill, but this is rarely needed with high-quality custom skid plates.
Secure the skid plate
Once the skid plate is in place, secure it with the provided bolts. Start by hand-tightening each bolt to ensure proper alignment, then use a wrench to fully tighten them. This is where quality hardware comes into play—don’t skimp on bolts if your skid plate kit didn’t come with any., otherwise, you risk having the plate come loose.
Double-check your work
Give everything a final check to make sure all bolts are tight and that the skid plate is properly aligned. Once you’re confident it’s secure, carefully lower your truck back to the ground.
Ready to Upgrade Your Rig?
With your skid plates installed, you’re one step closer to an off-road-ready rig. For additional support, custom modifications and upgrades, or service and maintenance, contact Dixie 4 Wheel Drive today. We’re here to make your off-road dreams a reality!
